The renovation of this modest post-war house completely transformed a once dark and confined space into a bright and open home. Despite the limited budget, every design decision was carefully considered to ensure maximum impact.
To achieve an open and seamless flow throughout the house, the number of interior walls was minimized, and the use of pocket doors created an inviting open concept. One of the most visually striking additions to the building is the angular front balcony on the second floor. Its cantilevered design not only offers shelter from the rain but also provides a captivating view of the mature maple tree in the front yard.
The sleek white metal façade not only enhances the home's modern aesthetic but also reflects sunlight, reducing the need for excessive air conditioning during the summer months. Vertical wood battens add a warm and inviting touch to both the interior and exterior of the home. Functionally, these battens serve as privacy screens while still allowing natural light to filter into the house.
Unique interior features include charming Juliette balconies overlooking the stairs, offering a playful connection for the children. The master bedroom, strategically positioned at the front, frames a picturesque view of the majestic maple tree in the front yard. Despite the compact footprint, the room is cleverly organized to serve both as a workspace and a tranquil resting area.
The #7StarGeneral_House exemplifies how simple yet thoughtful design choices can yield remarkable transformations, proving that a big imagination is far more important than a large budget.
What was the brief?
Reorganize a small post-war house into a new 2-story home for a young family. The project needed to stay within a tight budget of $150k (CAD)
How is the project unique?
To manage costs, corrugated steel was used to clad both the roof and walls. This reduced the number of trades required on site.
The roof line cuts diagonally across the building creating a dynamic high pitch on the front facade, The laminated veneer lumber is left exposed inside creating a lofty space.
The kids room at the rear are visually connected using Juliette balconies that overlook the central stair.
The house combines some of the original structure, like the stair, and integrates it with contemporary design elements.
Wood battens are a ubiquitous them in the house. It is used on the exterior facades as well as inside the house for the stair wells.
Maple was selected as the finish material to echo the mature maple in the front yard. The large tree sits on axis with the stair and is framed by a large window in the master bedroom.
The all white exterior is unique and pays homage to the winter weather in Canada's Capital.
Key products used:
Corrugated metal siding & roof, Laminated veneer lumber, maple
What were the key challenges?
Old structure and tiny footprint.
Budget.
What building methods were used?
Stick frame (wood)
What are the sustainability features?
The structure was super insulated on the exterior with the addition of the new cladding. An all white exterior was selected for its high albedo. This reflectance reduces the heat gain in the summer and reduces the need for air conditioning. Lofty ceilings were used to create a stack effect and enable better air circulation.
Team:
Architect & Interiors: 25:8 Architecture + Urban Design
Photography: Brendan Burden
